After volunteering with an occupational therapist in the Exceptional Family Members Services in Italy, Kirsta von Hellens was inspired to pursue a career in occupational therapy. She received her bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy from Eastern Kentucky University in 2000 and worked as an OT for a school district in northern Kentucky after graduation. She...Read More

As she began her college career, Christina Buchignani knew she wanted to be part of a helping profession. Her younger brother, Ryan, was born with a disability and she saw first-hand the challenges the world presented, not only for people who needed support, but their families as well. Her mother fought hard for Ryan working...Read More

Throughout the courses in the online Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program, there were many times I had the thought that I should be sharing the valuable knowledge I was gaining with my co-workers in homecare. My knowledge and confidence grew with each course. This led me to want to apply to...Read More

The choice to apply to Eastern Kentucky University’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program was an easy one. When researching and reviewing this program’s curriculum, I knew it would be a good fit for me.Read More

Occupational therapy is Emma McClellan’s second career. She originally went to art school and worked in metal shops and bronze foundries. When two coworkers each lost a finger, she found herself interested in their exercises and the difference their OT made for them. “I watched them go from despair to feeling like they got their...Read More

Advancements in 3-D printing technology have allowed for the generation of low-cost adaptive devices. The technology in rehabilitation course (OTS 825) recently completed a module exploring the use of 3-D printing to generate adaptive devices and solutions for a variety of client needs.  Shortly after the courses were moved online due to the COVID-19 pandemic,...Read More

Eastern Kentucky University was one the first schools in the country to offer a 100% online post-professional doctorate in occupational therapy.Read More

Ten EKU Online students just became doctors of occupational therapy. Originating from Florida, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina and West Virginia, they traveled to EKU to walk across the stage and celebrate with us.Read More

I look back to when I began this journey and am so grateful to the faculty of EKU and what each one contributed to my personal growth.  I would not be where I am today without their encouragement, support, and guidance.  It was not easy, but it was worth all the effort to have grown...Read More